impose: Meaning and Definition of

im•pose

1. to lay on or set as something to be borne, endured, obeyed, fulfilled, paid, etc.: to impose taxes.
2. to put or set by or as if by authority: to impose one's personal preference on others.
3. to obtrude or thrust (oneself, one's company, etc.) upon others.
4. to pass or palm off fraudulently or deceptively: He imposed his pretentious books on the public.
5. to lay (type pages, plates, etc.) in proper order on an imposing stone or the like and secure in a chase for printing.
6. to lay on or inflict, as a penalty.
7. to put or place on something, or in a particular place.
8. to lay on (the hands) ceremonially, as in confirmation or ordination.

1. to make an impression on the mind; impose one's or its authority or influence.
2. to obtrude oneself or one's requirements, as upon others: Are you sure my request doesn't impose?
3. to presume, as upon patience or good nature.
4. A study recently showed the shocking number of confidence men that impose on the public.
1. to thrust oneself offensively upon others; intrude.
2. to take unfair advantage of; misuse (influence, friendship, etc.).
3. to defraud; cheat; deceive:A study recently showed the shocking number of confidence men that impose on the public.